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Natural Selection 2

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2012

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Quick resume

A fast paced multiplayer shooter that pits aliens against humans in a strategic and action-packed struggle for survival!

Global score

85/100

Genres

Action, Indie, Strategy, Shooter, Puzzle, Real Time Strategy (RTS)

Pros

  • Unique fps-rts hybrid gameplay
  • Strong team cooperation and leadership
  • Asymmetric factions with distinct playstyles
  • High skill ceiling and strategic depth
  • Active community with ongoing updates

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new players
  • Small and sometimes toxic player base
  • Long loading times and optimization issues
  • Limited character customization
  • Requires microphone and communication

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can choose to play as commander with RTS control or as individual FPS units, allowing high personal freedom in roles and decisions."

  • Competence
    4

    "High skill ceiling with steep learning curve; players must master FPS aiming, RTS commanding, and team coordination."

  • Competition
    4

    "Strong competitive multiplayer focus with ranked servers and skill-based matchmaking; players compare performance."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Many players report long sessions and habitual play, with some having thousands of hours invested."

  • Cooperation
    5

    "Teamwork is essential; players must coordinate closely with commander and teammates to succeed."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Some creativity in tactical decisions and commander strategies; limited character customization."

  • Domination
    3

    "Competitive environment with some reports of toxic behavior and harsh treatment of new players."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game as intense distraction and stress relief through immersive sci-fi combat."

  • Expectation
    -3

    "Most players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players explore different roles, factions, and strategies; game encourages tactical experimentation."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Maps are large and complex, encouraging discovery of tactical positions and routes."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited character customization; mostly standardized faction appearances and preset aesthetics."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Strong sci-fi fantasy setting with aliens and marines, asymmetric factions and unique lifeforms."

  • Fellowship
    4

    "Community is close-knit and cooperative; players form social bonds through teamwork."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills over time; game has steep learning curve and rewards mastery."

  • Health
    -4

    "Typical sedentary gaming; no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires continuous attention and focus during matches; not a casual or idle experience."

  • Intimacy
    2

    "Some social interaction and camaraderie, but mostly team-based rather than close personal relationships."

  • Leadership
    5

    "Commander role involves leading, managing resources, and directing team strategy."

  • Progression
    4

    "In-game progression through upgrades, resource control, and evolving alien lifeforms."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "Gameplay is tense and challenging, with moments of adrenaline and stress."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Engaging audio-visual sci-fi atmosphere with suspenseful combat and effects."

  • Status
    3

    "Recognition through skill, rank, and community reputation is valued."

  • Story
    1

    "Basic sci-fi narrative background; gameplay is mostly session-based without deep story immersion."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Strong strategic and tactical planning required, especially for commanders."

  • Thrill
    4

    "High tension and suspense from asymmetric combat and team coordination."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report high value for time invested due to unique gameplay and replayability."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat and destruction are core gameplay elements, with shooting and alien attacks."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage resources to maintain control and survive."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026